A virtue is useless if we do not exercise it properly: to make it grow to its maximum splendor is our task.
“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” Philippians 4:8
Learn to recognize your gifts. We often find ourselves in situations where we pray to God for His holy intercession and as a consequence, we do not see all those virtues with which God blessed us. Identifying them will give us a clearer vision about our possibilities, recognizing them will surprise you.
“Knowing, my God, that You test the heart and delight in righteousness, I have voluntarily offered all these things in the integrity of my heart; and now I have seen with joy to Your people, who are here, make their offerings to You willingly.” Chronicles 29:17
Identify what you have learned and what is missing to learn. Because the fact that God has given us certain virtues, does not mean that we should treasure them as medals, but that on the contrary, we must exercise them and watch them grow, just like a plant must be watered. Taking our virtues to the fullest is our duty as children of God.
“But select capable men from all the people—men who fear God, trustworthy men who hate dishonest gain—and appoint them as officials over thousands, hundreds, fifties and tens.” Éxodus 18:21
Put your virtues to the test. A good way to see how successful the training and growth of our gifts was, it is important to test them and push them to the limit, always demanding more to take better advantage of them and thus make Christ proud.
“Naaman, general of the army of the king of Syria, was a great man before his lord, and in high esteem, because the Lord had given Syria salvation for him. He was this courageous man of virtue, but a leper.” Kings 5:1
Maintain humility. We are often surprised at what we can achieve with our efforts and with the help of God, achieving things that at another time would have seemed impossible. But you have to be careful with this because it can also be a breeding ground for feelings such as pride and arrogance. Let us always remember how God urges us to walk His way with humility.
“Lift up your eyes and look to the heavens: Who created all these? He who brings out the starry host one by one and calls forth each of them by name. Because of his great power and mighty strength, not one of them is missing.” Isaiah 40:26
Share your experience with others. Once all the previous steps have been completed, it is time to share our experience with others who may be of help, remember that it is our duty as children of Christ to give a hand to those who need it most, that way we will have completed our final mission to bring our gifts to the maximum of their ability, always with Christ by our side.